(BEDFORD) - American Senior Communities recently honored key employees, including a Bedford woman, with the coveted "Quest for Excellence Award."

Melody Hatfield, a licensed practical nurse at Westview Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Bedford, was among the 62 employees honored recently at an exclusive dinner at The Fountains in Carmel. The event included a speech by the highly regarded author and consultant Andy Andrews.

The Quest for Excellence Award honors one special employee from each of the 62 communities operated statewide by American Senior Communities. The employee must have consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence, dedication to his or her job, a positive attitude and a "whatever it takes" passion for customer service.

Management awards included: Marketing Leader of the Year - Robyn Scherrer, Rosewalk Village, Indianapolis; Clinical Leader of the Year - Lisa Terry, Heritage Park, Fort Wayne; Leader of the Year - James Sizemore, Williamsport Nursing & Rehabilitation, Williamsport; Community of the Year - American Village, Indianapolis.

"This year's Quest for Excellence Award recipients serve as examples of what a strong work ethic and passion for excellence can accomplish for a company," said Dan Benson, chief operating officer for American Senior Communities. "These exceptional employees have a strong impact on our company, not only in the quality of care they provide to our residents, but also by their unsurpassed commitment to customer service. We recognize these employees because they represent the spirit of the core principles and values of American Senior Communities. "

For more information about American Senior Communities, please visit the website at www.ASCSeniorCare.com